What does it mean word for word?
Literally, besos y abrazos means "kisses and hugs". Note that the word order is reversed compared to the English "hugs and kisses".
Which one should you use?
While besos y abrazos is the default, you may also see Abrazos y besos, which is a common and versatile variation. For a single instance of affection, you can use the singular form un beso y un abrazo, meaning "a kiss and a hug". For a more informal tone, you can use Abrazos y besitos, which employs the diminutive form for kisses.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The phrase besos y abrazos is informal and should only be used with people you have a close, affectionate relationship with, such as friends or family. If you need a more formal way to express this sentiment, you can use Envío afectuosos abrazos y cariñosos besos, which means "Sending affectionate hugs and loving kisses".
How do you pronounce it?
/besos i abɾaθos/
Did you know?
- The word beso shares a root with the word besamanos, a traditional formal ceremony of kissing a hand, usually reserved for royalty or high religious figures.
- In Spain, the social greeting involving besos typically involves two kisses, one on each cheek, whereas in most Latin American countries, only one kiss is customary.
- The term cariño, often paired with these words, can serve as both a noun for 'affection' and a nickname for a person you love.
Examples in context
- Sin más me despido. Besos y abrazos.Without further ado, I say goodbye. Hugs and kisses.This sentence is useful for showing how to use besos y abrazos as a way to say goodbye.Tatoeba #1868801 by wallebot, translation #9154118 by rafaeldejesus8199
- Besos y abrazos para todos.Hugs and kisses to everyone.
- Te envío muchos besos y abrazos.I send you many hugs and kisses.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are texting to say goodbye after a phone call.
- DanielBueno, me voy a dormir ya.Well, I am going to sleep now.
- MaríaDescansa mucho, Daniel.Rest a lot, Daniel.
- DanielGracias, María. Besos y abrazos.Thanks, María. Hugs and kisses.
- María¡Igualmente! Hasta mañana.Likewise! See you tomorrow.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
